What is Change? WIP

    I was just getting done purifying the last tree in this section of the forest, I should mention that I am a dragon at this point which makes this so much easier, so many magical properties that are controllable as one. Back on subject so I was getting done with this last tree when I hear a huge thud in the ground, and feel the vibrations of footsteps, and yes I know what footsteps feel like, defiantly not an earthquake. I looked to where these steps were coming from and saw a giant centaur looking creature, with odd face and horns. I was about to go up to him and give him a piece of my mind, until I realized I was only a fraction of his size, yes I was a smaller dragon not very big. Anyways, I hear him shout "PRINCESS TWILIGHT!!!!!!!" and some other nonsense. I really didn't pay too much attention to that fact, I was more caught on that there was another princess.

    Well after that initial threat of yelling as loud as he could, I noticed another person enter the scene, she was definitely smaller them him, and myself. She was a purplish color and had both wings and a horn, what is up with all these ponies turning into alicorns, I assume this must be Twilight then. Well not shortly after their spout of words, they attack each other, energy blast here, another blast there. I swear I've seen something like this before, but I'm too old and don't care to think about it. Well after a few minutes I see a blast head directly towards me. I was not fast enough to move, I'm just glad that I was a dragon at the time, that magic resistance really comes in handy sometimes.

    Well after being knocked out for who knows how long, by my guess of the stars about a week or so, I woke up to realize that I've hit another change. This time I've turned into a pure black stallion, mane and all. I'm roughly about the size of the other two princesses, you know the big ones, maybe slightly bigger hard to tell. I sighed a little inside, why now, I was making such good progress with my forest purification. And another problem is that with this change from dragon to pony/horse, also comes the change in diet. So now instead of living off of gems and hunting for food, I will have to grow it and scavenge for edible plants, which there really is none in this forest. Gah, I really hate that Luna chick sometimes, I swear. Well It looks like I have to go into that pony town nearby to get some edible food and seeds to start a farm of my own. Then back to fixing my forest, what seemed like about 400 years to complete now seems like twice as long, if I don't change again.

    I need money, I'm sure, if I want to get this food. So I go to my hoard of riches that I've stockpiled over the last couple of centuries. Mostly I've dug up myself, I say mostly because some idiots think that they can get their way with me if they give me all their valuables. I just look at them and tell them that is not happening and scare them away. But back to the present, so I grabbed what I could carry on me, which was not much, considering no saddle or way besides my mouth to carry items, but these couple of gems should help more than pay for what I need to get started. I know I'll get weird looks from some of the 'average' ponies, but I don't care, as long as I can get in and out in a hurry.

    So, I started to make my way down to the town that was at the edge of my forest. The trek seemed longer than usual, but I guess when you are not a dragon and unable to fly things will seem that way. At the same time, I was trying to keep the gems in my mouth, that just made things a bit more difficult. I had to take it slowly so I didn't trip and loose what I had. Everything seemed to leave me alone, even though I'm in a new form, I believe the creatures here are well aware that I am still me. I guess they respect me. I at least hope they do if not for me then they would not have a home. Still though What normally been like twenty minutes flying took around three hours of walking, not that I mind though, I don't honestly care how long it takes, but this body is hungry so I must feed it soon.

    After a couple of minutes, I managed to break the tree line. I looked around for a road or building in the distance that would indicate where the town was. All I could see nearby was a small cottage, that was in a tree. I was about to walk in that direction until I saw a tree like castle thing off in the distance. It almost looked like it was made of crystal. 'When did that get there?' I thought to myself. I must have been out cold longer then I though. Well I better go see what it is.

    Instead of going to the cottage I started to head to the castle thing. Maybe they will have food for me to buy. I don't see why they wouldn't, unless they are stingy old bastards who don't like to help out anyone else. 'Oh, please don't let that be the case.' I whispered out loud. Well only way to find out. As I walked to the castle I realized that it not only did it look like crystal, but that in fact it was completely made of crystal. It was mostly blue and purple, with some gold trim. Looks pretty nice. It must have cost a fortune and took forever to make it. I feel sad for whoever made their subjects build such a thing. They better have been properly rewarded for their hard work to make this thing.

    After a while of myself ranting on what I would do if these guys would not help me, I managed to find myself on the outskirts of this small looking town. 'Maybe they have what I need, and I don't need to go to that castle,' I thought. I then started to walk into the small town. I noticed ponies of all shapes and sizes along with colors. 'When did you all get pastel colored?' I asked myself, 'and what are those strange tattoo looking things on your butts?'

    After pondering all the different reasons, I could think of I went up to one of the locals and asked, "Where is the market at, miss?"

    The mint green mare that I asked spoke back to me in a pleasant voice, much better than the one that I have currently. "Oh just go that way." She said as she pointed to the left down the road. "By the way, are you new here? I'm Lyra and this is Ponyville. I got something to do so catch you later."

    And with that she started to walk in the opposite direction. I didn't even get to say thanks. I guess she was in a hurry.

    I started off down the road and thought about what type of seeds and food I should buy. Maybe get some things that will last about a year or two before I can actually grow stuff. Maybe some hay and oats. Maybe some salt rocks. I know ponies and horses need that sort of stuff to eat. I know where to get some water so that wasn't a problem. Well let's see here, maybe get some apples and fruits and stuff to start off with, at least have something sweat and tasty first. Besides food, I should also get me a cart, saddlebag, and maybe some other things. I'll have to go back and get more gems and come back tomorrow. I should have thought of this other stuff earlier. Well at least I know my way around my forest.

    I come around the bend of the street to find myself in a small market, not very big. Most likely will not have all that I need. Well let's see I first need a saddle, cart, and some minor food supplies while I get more gems for money. “Excuse me, miss. But would you happen to know where I can exchange these gems here for some money?" I asked the orange colored mare behind the counter.

    “I wouldn't know, sorry but maybe you should ask my friend Rarity. She lives at the boutique down that road over yonder. By the way, names Applejack, or Aj for short. Anyways I got to get back to the farm, maybe see you around, stud," She said with a wink and walked away.

    That strange encounter out of the way, I headed down the way that she said, until I came across this frilly building. I'm guessing this is the boutique then. The building was about two stories, mainly a light shade of pink and purple. And around it was poles that made it resemble a carousel.

    I walked up and knocked on the door. As soon as my hoof made contact with the door, it swung wide open. Inside I saw a few scattered pony shaped manikins with different style outfits on them, then I saw one of those fashion walkways. With big red curtains hiding what's behind them. "Hello, is anyone here?" I asked the big empty room.

    I waited around a minute before I heard some struggling sounds in the back. "Are you ok? I'm coming back there." I shouted, as I started to supporting up to the stage and behind the curtains.

    The scene behind the curtains, was a humorous one to say the least. There was a white mare, with a mess of a purple mane, stuck in a pile of fabrics and materials. I instantly started to laugh.

    "Can you be any more fool? Do you know not to help a lady out when she is in distress?" She said in a annoyed voice.

    "I would, but aren't you a unicorn? Can you just not lift this stuff off of yourself?" I replied, while still slightly laughing.

    "Well, umm, you see.... I kind of forgot that. Hehe...," She said with a blush on her face. Then she picked everything off of her and threw it off to the side.

    "My name is Rarity by the way, and aren't you a fine looking gentlecolt. Are you seeing anypony by chance?" Rarity said while looking over my body.

    "Gentle what? Anyways, I've come here because I was told that you were the person to see about exchanging gems. Here is a couple that I have right now. How much can I get for them?" I said as I say it the gem from under my tongue.

    "Oh I just know all about gems, I use the ones I dig up for my dresses. Let's see here. Oh my, these gems are gorgeous. I have seen many diamonds but none this pure. I must have them! Name your price."

    "Hmm, I do not know how much I need, but you think I could get enough to get a year's supply of food and seeds to plant, and to get a wagon and saddle?"

    "I don't believe that I have that much on me. I'll help the best I can.  Sorry for my outburst earlier. I've been up all night, coming up with ideas for my next ensemble. I just got a brilliant idea, you should model for me. I usually don't work on stallion garments. But for you I'll make anything," The creepy white mare said with a sadistic look.

    "Ummm, can you stop looking at me like that, that is kind of creepy. And I really just need to get the supplies. I got to continue working on restoring my forest, I'm pretty sure you know it as the Everfree. I hate what was done to it by that brute of a mare, Nightmare Moon. It uses to look so beautiful, and peaceful. So if you would I really need as much money as I can get for that gem to be on my way." I replied with slight annoyance, and a bit of haste.

    "I don't know what you're talking about when you say your forest or restoring it, but I can tell that you are serious. I don't know if you’re crazy or not. But I do have a proposition, you model for me and I'll make sure you get all the bits you need." Rarity said with a smile, like she had already caught me with her bait.

    "Well I would but I have more gems back at my home that I could trade in. Thanks for the offer though." I started to say and proceeded to walk to the exit. I didn't make it then feet before I got picked up by her magic. "I don't have time for this." I said, as her magic faded away from me. I continued to walk out of this crazy mare' s house. I'm glad I can dispel most magic at will.

    I can hear her grunting in the back trying to get her magic to work on me. I paused right before I exited the door. "Don't ever try that again, in not one to trifle with," I then turned my head to her, noticing the superior shock and terror on her face. "I will be back with other gems. I hope when I return that you can show more professionalism and respect." And with that I shut the door behind me.

    After I walked a bit more, I started to laugh. I could not stop laughing at all. I can't believe I just acted like that. That look on her face was unbelievable. Only if I was able to get that look back in the day. Well when I come back I'll be sure to apologize.

    After a good solid ten or so minutes, I started to collect myself. I then realized that there was a pink mare besides me laughing away. I just tilted my head and stared at her with confusion. Once she saw me look at her, she stopped laughing and bounced up on her feet.

    "Hi, my name is Pinkie pie but you can just call me Pinkie. The way you acted all tough guy and serious towards Rarity was hilarious. Her face was all like, don't hurt me, and you were like, I'm mad now don't try that again. If you acted a little angrier or serious, I think she would have soiled herself. But if you were to hurt my friends or threaten them then you will have to deal with me," She warned me, while quickly switching her voice to a more serious one. As she said that last part her whole character changed from a happy funny looking pony to a serious one that looked like she could back up her words.

    "I don't doubt that." I said. "But I was only having a little fun, but she started it with trying to carry me with her magic. I just saw the opportunity to have a little fun and take it. I like you Pinkie. You seem to know how to have fun. It's been awhile since I've had a good laugh. I don't remember how long is been now."

    "I just remembered I got to go do something, after you get back come down to Sugar Cube Corner. Ok bye," She said and just zoomed off.

    Hmm, there is something strange about her, but at least she enjoys a good laugh. Well I need to head back to my cave now, before it gets to dark. So I collect myself and head out in the journey back to get more gems.

    The walk through the woods was an uneventful one. Just was letting my mind wonder. As I got to my cave I managed to trip and fall on one of my stones I used as a path. I managed to not get any scratches.

    I just pondered how I was going to get more gems back to the town. I could get one of those goblets and put them in there, but I just have something else here.

    So I started to search my hoard, for anything that could help. About an hour had passed and I haven't found anything.

    I was about to give up looking when I heard a rustle. As soon as I heard that I froze and slowly looked around for the culprit. I saw a glimpse of movement behind one of the few statutes that scatter my hoard. I called out, "Whoever you are you better come out, it's rude to hide in a house that's not yours. If you choose to stay hidden, I can't be held responsible for what will happen to you." Even though I wouldn't do anything, I still made it sound like I would, just to scare them from doing anything stupid.

    Of course, whoever it is, doesn’t listen and just stay hidden. I sighed out loud and made my way slowly around the statute to see who was there. As I came around the edge, I saw a small dog. "Huh. You are not what I was expecting. I would have thought at least a treasure hunter, or an opposing dragon, but a dog, puppy no less. Could have fooled me, especially when you made this statute move," I said with a smirk.

    The "puppy" looked scared as it should be. I could tell that this was no ordinary dog, and it could not fool me with its appearance. I may be old, and not really the one to pay attention to everything, but I can tell the difference between the real thing and a fake any day.

    "I'll give you props though, you almost had me there for a second, if it wasn't for the slight green hue that you have around you. You almost have it down too. But when dealing with a trained eye, that by the way still has the properties of a dragon, I can easily see it. So I'll give you the benefit of the doubt and let you reveal who you truly are and I might spare you," I said, confidently.

    The dog just sat there, giving me the most confused look it could muster. Slowly it stood up and gave a small cough and started to grow and change color. Its fur changed from a golden brown to a carbon black. The ears shrank and became pointed. Small bug like wings started to grow from the back. Legs got longer and holes started to form, making them resemble swiss cheese. Tail stayed short but turned to a light bluish green color.

    After the transformation I asked, "So who are you, and why where you hiding back here?"

    "My name, I don't have a name. I do have an identification number though, 73683. I am a changeling and I use to belong to the northern hive. But that is a long story that you don't need to know. I stumbled across this place and decided to hide for a little bit due to it being night time. Who are you, and how do I know this is your place? This looks like a dragon’s hoard."

    "I know you are a changeling, that is no surprise. As to why your here, you can stay as long as you don't take anything. Also this hoard is mine, and that is because I use to be a dragon. I was knocked out a few weeks ago wake up this morning as a pony. I've been through worse. Just be glad you are able to control when you change, and what you can change into. Also don't try anything foolish, I've been alive longer then you realize. I know many things. One thing I witnessed was the birth of your species. Your queen made a sacrifice and saved the world from Discord's chaos. Things happen I guess. Too bad though she just ran instead of facing her problems," I stop and look to see the dumbfounded expression in her face.

    "You are lying, only the queen and the two sisters are that old. There is no way," she replied with disbelief.

    "I don't care what you say, but if you want to stay the night I suggest you not call me a liar in my own home. Now, it is late and I suggest you follow me if you want to sleep somewhat comfortable tonight," I finished as I walked deeper in my cave.

    I don't make it far before she ran up beside me. She didn't say anything just looking around at the barren walls of the inner passageways of the cave. I never decorated them. I could care less, not because I didn’t want to, because I didn’t know what I was changing into next. The only reason I had the hoard was because of dragon’s greed is a tough thing to overcome.

    I turn one final corner and say, “well this is your room for the night. It is not much but at least it has a bed. Also I need to call you something other than a number. In the morning come up with a name, and I guess I’ll think of one too. Well good night. I am off to my room,” I finished while leaving her in that barren room.

    “Good night, I guess,” she said disappointingly.

    My room was quiet. Bigger then it was the last time I was in here, but that is only because of I’m not a dragon. Well I better get some rest now, I just hope things are better tomorrow, I need to get some food fast. Oh well, time to sleep.